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Islands, Capes, & Sounds
The North Carolina Coast
Thomas J. Schoenbaum
John F. Blair, Publisher
978-0-89587-059-9
$12.95 paperback
6 x 9
333 pages; black-and-white photos throughout
Published in 1982
Coastal, Environment & Nature, History, North Carolina
From the author . . .
This book is a description of the coastal heritage of North Carolina, a guide for those who wish to know her coast, and the story of how man is dealing with North Carolina's coastal resources. My method is largely subjective and impressionistic, at times eschewing scientific objectivity in favor of exploring the implications of the history and natural processes of the coast for decisions that will determine the future of the region.
Coastal resource management must take into account more than legal doctrines and the predictions and projections of government planners. The human and natural history of the North Carolina seacoast is extremely rich and complex. It provides the essential background and the inescapable context for making management decisions. I offer here a humanistic exploration of the coastal heritage of North Carolina and suggestions on how that heritage should be preserved.
During the last several years, development has proceeded apace on the North Carolina coast—but so has care and preservation of coastal resources. Areas of environmental concern have been designated, estuarine reserves have been established, and a beach access program is being maintained. Complex issues remain, but they are now being addressed by a state management program that is the most interesting and innovative in the nation.

Reviews
“This is a unique and daring book. It combines the classical history approach with spicy behind-the-scenes politics. I think the book is a must for the bookshelf of anyone interested in the North Carolina coast.”
Oprin H. Pilkey, Jr., author and Duke University professor of geology
“. . . excellent . . . what he says is of great relevance to the entire eastern seaboard of the United States. I hope Dr. Schoenbaum’s book achieves a wide readership, because what he has to say needs to be heard.”
James Michener
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